The main difference between bone and cartilage is of
(a) Mineral salts
(b) Blood vessels
(c) Lymph vessels
(d) Haversian canals

Options

A. Mineral salts
B. Blood vessels
C. Lymph vessels
D. Haversian canals.

Answer

To determine the main difference between bone and cartilage, we can analyze the characteristics of each tissue type. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Composition of Bone
- Bone is a hard, inelastic, and rigid tissue that forms the major structures of the body.
- It has a hard matrix primarily due to the deposition of mineral salts, particularly calcium salts.
- This mineral deposition gives bones their rigidity and strength, making them unable to bend without breaking.

**Hint:** Focus on what gives bone its hardness and rigidity.

### Step 2: Understand the Composition of Cartilage
- Cartilage is a soft, elastic, and flexible tissue.
- It is characterized by its ability to bend and is often described as a pad-like substance.
- Cartilage does not have mineral deposition; instead, it contains a protein called chondrin, which contributes to its flexibility.

**Hint:** Consider the properties that allow cartilage to be flexible and soft.

### Step 3: Compare the Two Tissues
- The primary difference between bone and cartilage lies in the presence of mineral salts.
- Bones have a hard matrix due to mineral salts, while cartilage lacks this mineralization, making it soft and flexible.
- Other factors such as blood vessels, lymph vessels, and Haversian canals do not serve as distinguishing features between the two tissues.

**Hint:** Identify the key structural differences that set bone apart from cartilage.

### Conclusion
Based on the analysis, the main difference between bone and cartilage is the presence of mineral salts. Therefore, the correct answer is:

**(a) Mineral salts**